LONNIE GEORGE RAATZ

Lonnie George Raatz of Aurora Lonnie George Raatz, formerly of Chester, Neb., the son of Martin and Dixie Raatz was born on March 22, 1958, in Belleville, Kan. He departed this life on Friday, July 16, 2010. Lonnie grew up in Chester and graduated from Chester-Hubbell High School in 1976. He attended the University of Nebraska - Lincoln and graduated in 1980, with an accounting degree. He married Brenda Sonksen on July 5, 1980. This marriage was blessed with the birth of two children, Derek Allen and Ashley Marie. After graduation from college and marriage, Lonnie and Brenda moved to Chicago, where Lonnie was employed by Beatrice Foods. Lonnie later received his C.P.A. and M.B.A. from Northern Illinois University. After the liquidation of Beatrice Foods, Lonnie moved on and was hired by World's Finest Chocolate, where he dedicated himself to the company's success. He eventually reached the head of the accounting division. Lonnie was an avid Nebraska Cornhusker football fan until the day he died. He also enjoyed camping with his family, attending his son's many athletic events, and enthusiastically following his daughter's many academic pursuits. He was a notorious tinker and carpenter - mostly successful, and always trying. He was very dedicated to whatever he undertook. He was preceded in death by his father, Martin Raatz. Lonnie is survived by his immediate family of Brenda (Aurora), Derek (Aurora) and Ashley (DeKalb, Ill.); his mother, Dixie Raatz (Chester, Neb.); and his brother Russ and family, Michele, Nicole and Connor (Lincoln, Neb). A memorial open house will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, August 7, at 3179 Preakness Drive, Aurora. Please RSVP to 630-707-9999. Arrangements were made by Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia at 630-879-7900 or www.mossfuneral.com.